There's a Hidden Birdwatcher’s Paradise in UP Where Birds Travel 5,000 km Every Year

Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary

Each winter, thousands of birds descend upon a quiet patch of wetlands in Uttar Pradesh’s Gonda district — some flying in from as far as Siberia and Europe. Welcome to the Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary, a Ramsar-recognised haven for over 150 bird species, tucked away just 40 km from Gonda town and 25 km from Ayodhya.

Officially declared a sanctuary in 1990, this 1,084-hectare site remains relatively unknown, making it a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers and offbeat travellers alike.

A Sanctuary Built Around Lakes

Parvati Arga is renowned on the international wetlands map as a Ramsar site. The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, initiated in 1971, aims to safeguard critical ecosystems like this through conservation and sustainable use initiatives.

The sanctuary is named after its iconic oxbow lakes, Parvati Tal and Arga Tal, shaped like graceful crescents. These lakes are remnants of a meandering river course, offering permanent freshwater habitats that support a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Surrounding the lakes, the Tikri forest forms an emerald border, offering sanctuary not just to wildlife, but also to travellers seeking solitude from the hustle.

Home to Endangered Vultures and Migratory Birds

Parvati Arga hosts over 150 bird species, including both resident and migratory birds such as pintails, mallards, and greylag geese.

It serves as a crucial roosting and breeding ground for several IUCN-listed threatened vulture species, including:

• White-rumped vulture
• Indian vulture
• Endangered Egyptian vulture

Beyond Birds: A Diverse Ecosystem

What sets Parvati Arga apart is its combination of avian life and terrestrial fauna. Visitors may also spot jackals, nilgai, and wild boars.

The sanctuary is home to 176 plant species, including prominent aquatic flora like water lilies and lotus, which add colour and vibrancy to the lakes while supporting the region’s biodiversity.

It also plays a key role in regional hydrology, contributing to groundwater recharge and discharge, making it an important ecological site beyond just wildlife.

Planning Your Visit

The best time for birdwatching is between November and February, though the sanctuary remains open until March.

Getting there:

• By Air: Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow — 120 km
• By Rail: Mankapur Junction — 15 km from the wetlands

Why Visit Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary?

• Witness migratory birds traveling over 5,000 km from Siberia and Europe.
• Spot endangered vultures and diverse wildlife.
• Explore hidden lakes and lush forests off the beaten path.
• Enjoy peaceful birdwatching and nature photography away from crowds.